News Release: 25/11/2025

MEDIA RELEASE: Greater Vernon Chamber Urges Residents to Invest in Their Community on Small Business Saturday, November 29
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
VERNON, B.C. (November 24, 2025) – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is encouraging residents to prioritize local shopping this Small Business Saturday on November 29, 2025. The initiative, coinciding with the start of the crucial holiday shopping season, highlights the significant economic impact of every dollar spent at an independent Vernon business.
"Every purchase made at a Vernon small business isn't just a transaction; it's a vote for our community's future," Sonja Harkness Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce Executive Director said. "66 cents of every dollar spent at a small business stays right here in our local economy, compared to only 11 cents when shopping at a large multinational retailer."
This economic ripple effect directly supports local jobs, funds community projects, and helps sustain the unique character of Greater Vernon.

• Local Recirculation: Those dollars are re-invested locally, funding everything from wages for local employees to purchasing supplies and services from other local Greater Vernon companies.
• Job Creation: Small businesses are the lifeblood of the local job market. Supporting them ensures employment stability for Vernon and area residents.
• Community Investment: A significant portion of small business revenue is often contributed through local sponsorships, donations, and charitable giving, which directly benefits local sports teams, non-profits, and community events.

Kick Off the Holiday Season by Shopping Small
Small Business Saturday serves as the ideal kickoff to the holiday season, encouraging shoppers to shift their spending intentions away from online giants and border shopping toward the high-quality, personal service offered by local entrepreneurs.
"This is a make-or-break time for many of our independent retailers, who have faced rising costs and economic uncertainty," Harkness added. "By consciously choosing to shop local https://business.vernonchamber.ca/list on November 29th and throughout the holidays, residents can give our small businesses the strong finish they need to thrive."
 
The Greater Vernon Chamber encourages residents to:

• Visit Downtown & Neighbourhood Stores: Explore the unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants across all Vernon districts. Vernon offers free downtown parking on Holiday Shopping Saturday's: Nov. 29 & December 6, 13 & 20
• Visit local shops online.
• Ask for Gift Cards: Purchase gift cards from local shops and restaurants to be used throughout the new year, guaranteeing future sales for the business.

About The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is the leading voice of business in the North Okanagan since 1897, representing its members and advocating for economic prosperity across the region. The Chamber actively supports and promotes local businesses through events, advocacy, and #ShopLocal campaigns to ensure the community remains vibrant and resilient.
Media Contact:
Sonja Harkness Executive Director Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce
250-545-0771 ed@vernonchamber.ca www.vernonchamber.ca